I've gotten several questions about my Postpartum Mood Disorder and know that there are many people who may feel a little awkward around me or others who have a form of PPD, after all, it is an illness that people are just learning about and it differs from person to person. So I thought I would take some time to answer a few common questions that relate directly to my situation. I am going to limit it to 5 questions for now. Feel free to e-mail me with additional questions, perhaps I can add another post.
- Q - Did you have PPD with Xylie? A- Yes I did. It was a moderate case then and pretty scary because I did not know what I was dealing with at the time. I didn't have what I thought were "normal" depression symptoms.
- Q- What are your symptoms? A- I have several. I experience panic attacks, mostly triggered by commotion or clutter. I know these two things can make most people edgy, but with the PPD, my tolerance level has gotten even lower. Loud noises confuse me. I have trouble making decisions in the grocery store, especially with the children. I have been known to stand in a particular isle as if I were frozen in time shaking. I am also very easily agitated and confused. The slightest tasks seem to overwhelm me and activities I once enjoyed (like party planning, etc. stress me out). Another symptom is a type of OCD. I have the obessions (intrusive thoughts, odd fears, etc.) but no compulsions (i.e. - handwashing, etc.)
- Q- What does your treatment entail? A- Plenty of therapy. I am seeing both a psychiatrist to medication to help balance the chemical affects of the illness and a Christian Therapist who helps me get a Biblical perspective on some of my struggles. I find both necessary. Napp and I also have a plan to help me minimize stress and many of my friends are helping as well. Prayer and Bible study are a big part of my recovery plan as well as trying to eat very healthy and getting fresh air and exercise.
- Q - When did you notice you had a postpartum mood disorder and when will you get better? A- I noticed symptoms when I was 8 months-pregnant with Zayden (it can start Prenatal). I started medication and therapy in Corpus. Things seemed to get better until we moved. Additional life stresses can act as triggers in PPD. We have had several in the past year (Napp's Job with A&M ending; Napp not having a new job until LATE summer; PapPap having the stroke; having a new baby; Moving across the country; adjusting to a preschooler who resisted the move and fought with terrible temper tantrums; Napp's extreme back pain; leaving a wonderful support system, etc.). Although we had so many wonderful blessings as well, the stresses, really did a number on my brain chemicals. They'd be pretty tough to handle without PPD. As far as when I will get better...that's a good question. I have some really good days and some pretty bad ones. In general it is rec. that I stay on the medication until I am symptom-free for at least 1-2 years. Hopefully, the symptom free part will get here soon.
- Q- Should we treat you any differently? A- Not really. I could use some extra patience and prayer and there will be days when I may need some extra help and prayer. However, please treat me like you normally do. Feel free to ask me about how I am doing, etc. I am not ashamed of having PPD, so there is no need to feel awkward around me. I am also not a danger to anyone. Please don't ask me very personal questions around my daughter or other children.
I hope the above was helpful. Blessings. Angela
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